Veterans Sign
A sign thanks in Branson, Missouri expresses gratitude to veterans. Reuters

Veteran's Day is a rare chance for Americans to honor those men and women who have served their country, and across the country restaurants are joining in and doing their part to help the nation's warriors.

Eateries have for many years offered perks for veterans on the annual holiday, which falls on Friday, Nov. 11, 2011, as a small token of their appreciation for the sacrifices they have made for their country.

A list of such eating establishments, as well as other locations where free and discounted grub can be grabbed by the nation's warriors, is posted at TheMilitaryWallet.com. A sampling of these opportunities is posted below.

Many of the restaurants listed require proof of military service in order for a free meal or other discount to be provided, while individual locations may choose not to participate in the promotions, so calling ahead is recommended.

Applebee's served veterans and active duty soldiers more than a million free meals under its Veteran's Day program last year, and this year the company is offering seven choices of entrees free to participants.

Famous Dave's offers free and discounted Veterans Day meals, check this website for more details, and be sure to check with your local restaurant beforehand.

Chili's is another major national chain offering free meals to all veterans and active service members Friday, with six choices of entrée available.

Veterans can eat for free in the morning hours as well by stopping in at their local Denny's. The diner-style restaurant offers them a free Grand Slam Breakfast, but the offer is not valid at all locations, so be sure to check before making the trek.

Hooters also offers free meals for vets. The deal lasts all day on Veteran's Day and entitles vets and active duty military members to 10 free wings with the purchase of a drink.

Golden Corral will follow up the Friday free meals by instead hosting its 10th annual Golden Corral Military Appreciation dinner on Monday, Nov. 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. at all of its

Veterans Day Free